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FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – January Edition

Happy 2024! I am so thrilled for this brand new, fresh year. Let’s make it worthwhile shall we?

Here are a few favorites that helped get me through the last 365 days.

Trip to Vermont

I will do a whole separate post on our trip to Vermont this fall. It was absolutely life changing! I love every single thing about fall and Vermont, including this adorable book store! I could have spent a whole day here, but settled for an hour. The husband doesn’t read many books, but was super patient while I lived my best life amongst the pages.

Fuzzy Slippers with Arch Support

These slippers have turned me into the lady who wears houseshoes in public.  I love the rubber sole of these that insure I can wear them inside and outside.  They come in so many fun color options, and a fuzzy sole as well. When I come home every day, I hum along with Mr. Rogers in my head while I put my slippers on.

Triple Twist Gold Bracelet

This bracelet is a new favorite. It’s always on my left arm, along with her single sister. They can be found at Textured Threads inside The Collective or online here.

imPRESS Press-On Falsies Eyelash Clusters Wispy

Due to dry eyes, I had to stop getting eyelash extensions.  Which was a grieving process for my laziness and a growth process for my lashes.  Even with lash growing serum, I feel like it took forever.  When I found these press on falsies that are pre-glued, I was hooked!  They are SO easy to apply, they apply under your lashes rather than over….game changer for not weighing down your eyelid!   I started with a whole kit that has the applicator as well, and now just order this refill pack (in the wispy).  Even with my own lashes grown out, I still use them occasionally when I need more drama.  

Twist Me Pretty Bag

I’m so glad I got suckered in by Instagram. This 6-in-1 bag, can be used to organize all of your small accessories – take it traveling, keep it in your bathroom, fill it full of hair accessories, your children’s items, your items, the options are endless!  It’s a great gift for friends too!

Jennifer Miller, House of Colour

Not all Color Experts are the same….Jennifer offers such a gift in her knowledge and expertise! Prior to Jennifer opening House of Colour Lorena in the Waco Area, I drove out of town to get my colors done. I left wanting to know more about what my season looked like for me. When a friend introduced me to Jennifer, I booked an Advanced Color Session to dive into it a little deeper. It was an incredible experience! I never understood why certain colors washed me out or why. She even took the time to explain makeup colors. Once I wrapped my head around my color palette, I booked a Style Consultation with her. As she writes on her website, “Your clothes should be a reflection of your personality, honoring your lifestyle, preferences, and body architecture beautifully. You’ll learn the cuts of clothing, accessory scale, pattern type & scale, neckline, hem lengths and features in clothing that best suit you. This equips you to curate a beautiful wardrobe that suits YOU!” HIGHLY recommend booking a color appointment with Jennifer! My closet feels nicer to me now.

Triangle Makeup Puff

These little triangle makeup puffs are PERFECT for blending under-eye highlighter. The shape is great for getting in the corner of the eye, the other end is great for blending or softening a look.

The Murphy Shepherd Series (The Water Keeper, The Letter Keeper, & The Record Keeper)

This series is one of my all time favorites! It is exciting and heartwarming, I couldn’t put them down. All of Charles Martin’s books are great reads, another favorite is When Crickets Cry.

Celebrate with Babs: Holiday Recipes & Family Traditions

I love this grandmother, Babs. I am one of the masses who follow her tips and tricks on Instagram. I suspect she knows everything. Her new cook book is a delight. I like to pretend she is my grandmother too.

Garden of Life Olde World Icelandic Cod Liver Oil Liquid – Lemon Mint Flavor

I take so many vitamins a day, anything I can take in liquid form that doesn’t taste horrible is welcomed. The lemon-mint flavor of this guy is delightful. Fish oil to keep the joints moving and the skin/hair soft!

Youthing Strategies Face and Body Sesame Oil

My skin is so, so dry. I have a plethora of favorite remedies for this, so don’t be surprised when I share another next month. I feel like my skin tricks me, just when I think I’ve found the solution it changes up. So, the tricked became the tricker, and I started changing up my routine. Using this oil right after the shower (on dry skin) has helped a ton. I don’t want to state the obvious here, but it’s oily, maybe don’t use right before getting dressed for the day. Best to use at night!

Phil My Pharmacist Instagram

This guy is hilarious and SO knowledgeable! I love his explanations of how our body works, life hacks, tips, and links to help our bodies operate more like the machine they are!

Wishing you a smooth and sweet 2024 dear ones!

Brooke

January 11, 2024 by
Books, Busy, Fashion, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts, Textured Threads

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – APRIL EDITION 

Hello my friend. May is only a few days away, and it has proven, year after year, to be a booger of a month. Our youngest son is a Senior, so this is the last May to have my calendar full of end of the school year activities and it’s a weird feeling. Weird and yet kind of wonderful. I’m soaking up every last and have faith that our next season of parenting will be just as sweet. Here are a few things that are currently making my days better!

I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet

I’m a big fan of Shauna Niequist, she has a beautiful way of writing that allows us to exhale. She is calm, lovely, and honest about the beautiful and ugly parts of life. I listened to her new book and then read it. The entire thing is now highlighted and underlined, and I’m still re-reading some parts. I don’t want to oversell it, I’ll let you highlight your own book, besides I think the title does a good enough job on it’s own. I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet: Discovering New Ways of Living When the Old Ways Stop Working

ANGRY ORANGE Pet Odor Eliminator

We have an elderly dog who never had accidents until this past year. We love her dearly and appreciate all the years of love she has given our family, so we have made some changes to accommodate her while trying to maintain a clean house. This pet urine odor eliminator for your home defeats some of the worst odors and leaves the sweet smell of fresh oranges behind. Even when I’m not trying to cover a horrible smell, I’ll spray it to freshen up stagnant odors.

Party Bar 125 Qt Cooler

Inspired by the outdoor beer chests found at a traditional Texas ice house, the Igloo Party Bar is the ultimate cooler for keeping your party going from day into night. When we got this in, I was a tad disappointed in the flimsy lid thinking it wouldn’t keep the drinks iced down long. However, it proved me wrong and works shockingly well. The cooler comes with a removable base and bottle opener on the side. We love hosting and this little (big) guy has made it so much easier!

Colleen Rothchild Radiant Cleansing Balm

I’ve slowly joined the cult. This cleansing balm came in a sample kit and quickly became a nightly must. The dreaded chore of washing the day off my face has become an indulgence. The Radiant Cleansing Balm clears congested pores and removes impurities while dissolving all traces of makeup. Colleen Rothchild has amazing sales, so get on their text list and try it on their next one!

R+Co Outerspace Flexible Hairspray

I love this hairspray – it’s light and allows my hair to move. I have a horrible habit of constantly messing with my hair, and this spray enables me to keep my bad habits. I see you women with gorgeous, fixed hair and want to be you. But until I can quit messing with my locks and eating peanut M&Ms in bed, I’ll just continue to admire you.

Inis Replenishing Body Oil

I blame Marlo. She got me hooked on this Inis Oil, and now we carry the whole Inis Collection at Textured Threads Boutique. This oil is lightweight, smells amazing, and is super nourishing for the skin.  Hydrating seaweed extracts, jojoba and sweet almond oils, smooth and deeply moisturize, while Vitamin E helps revitalize and condition. Spray it on damp skin right out of the shower and enjoy being moisturized all day!

O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop, Bucket Floor Cleaning System

I don’t think this mop is new to anyone. At this point I’m not comfortable with spending the bucks on a machine that mops for me, so I’ll stick to the tried and true mops. Best Features – hands free wringing, washable mop head, and let’s be honest…the foot pedal brings me great joy.

Sending you all love, light, and caffeine,

Brooke

April 28, 2022 by
Books, Fashion, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – MARCH EDITION

Hello from Spring Break! You can’t even tell from this photo that I’m hobbling on a newly broken ankle. But how could one miss out on this gorgeous weather and perfect snow day! Here are a few of my favorite things…

Clear/Transparent Sticky Notes

These are the coolest. And pushed me further over the edge of being an office supply nerd. They are great for notes in your books, day planners, office, fridge, basically anywhere! They have a ton of different sizes. I love this size for List and Memos, I use the smaller ones for tabs on books that I’m reading but can’t mark up. This bundle is good if you just want to try them all! I just love a clean looking office, and these help a ton! You are going to love them!

Color Wow Raise the Root Thicken + Lift Spray

This root spray is a lifesaver for a morning hair refresher! I always seem to forget it when I’m blowing drying my hair after shampooing, but the times I do remember make for a good hair day! It is not sticky, nor does it leave your hair feeling super “producty”. It’s the amazing lift your hair deserves.

Casserole Crock Pot

My name is Brooke and I am a Crock Pot Addict. I can’t believe I haven’t shared this yet, it’s a casual entertainer’s dream! This guy is perfect for those casseroles and dips best served hot at a party. A casserole dish that you can throw in the oven, cook your casserole in, then pop in the base to keep it hot! This is my newest one, but I also have the cheaper version that is just as good!

Tanti Baci By KC

Talented, creative people just amaze me. A friend of mine recently started this little side business and we can’t quit ordering fun, personalized apparel that she creates! She has such a fun eye for color and cutting edge fashion. You can DM her on her Instagram for a custom order! Everything I’ve gotten from her is so fun!

Rechargeable Hand Warmers

Our youngest son decided to play soccer his senior year. I never realized how BRUTAL soccer season weather is. Some of the coldest nights I’ve ever spent in bleachers. These definitely help keep the chill off. They take a minute to “preheat”, but once they warmed up my fingers stayed toasty.

Small Leather Credit Card Holder & Hard Case

This is the perfect size wallet for all the credit cards, discount cards, and gift cards we carry around with us on the daily. I didn’t realize it was a Gucci dupe until my son told me, but whatever. I had a similar wallet for years, until it sadly died. I’ve searched for a replacement and finally found this one on Amazon. It comes in several fun colors!

Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life

This book is a life changer. It’s a personal development, business, and leadership read that is actually enjoyable! What would be possible if you followed through on your best intentions? What could you accomplish if you could stay focused? What if you had the power to become “indistractable?”  5 Stars for this book!

Personalized Vintage Luggage

Girlfriend Vacations are so expensive. Not the actual trip itself, but all the things your friends introduce you to that you have to come home and purchase! Like this adorable luggage! (Thanks Fallon!) I don’t know if I fully trust the airlines to handle these beauties, but we do plenty of road trips that I’ll use these on! There are several sizes; the Full Size Suitcase, Carry on Suitcase, Weekender Bag, plus several more! View the entire Vintage Collection here….

Portable Door Lock for Additional Safety

Clearly I’ve watched too many crime shows, but this helps me sleep more soundly in hotel rooms and Vrbos. In complete transparency, I’ve only used it on one trip so far, but I can report that it works better than knife shoved sideways into the door jam.

Ultra Slim Portable Charger

Shared again per request….This portable charger is my favorite ever. It is always in my purse, and can fully charge my phone up to 3 times before needing a recharge itself.  This guy comes with all the different charger cords tucked into the sides, and a built in wall plug to recharge it when it needs it. It solves the problem of having a charger, but forgetting the cord at home. It’s my best friend.

May March bring you joy, rest, and rejuvenation!

Brooke

March 17, 2022 by
Books, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Friendship, Gifts

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – February Guest Edition

If you are a friend of Kyla Dieterich’s, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. We met 13 years ago and have been stuck like glue ever since. She is one of the most thoughtful humans on the planet, the type of friend who would give you a kidney. Literally. Kyla is a devoted follower and champion for Jesus, a full-time-mom-who-doesn’t-miss-a-thing to 3 darlings – Kyson, Kolt, and Kerrigan (aka Brooke’s K-babies), is a near perfect home maker, and leads a weekly women’s bible study. Somehow in her spare time of raising good humans, she is a Platinum Realtor with Kelly Realtors, selling over 12 million last year! The girl is a divine, creative soul, who loves to cross stitch and paint anything sitting still. She will always be a favorite travel companion of mine, whether it’s walking the Bridges of Madison County, getting lost in Madrid, or floating around in a hot air balloon, we’ve done it all, together, with a lot of laughs. Enjoy getting to know my friend while she describes her favorite things!

Seamless Bible Study, Angie Smith

Angie Smith is AMAZING at beautifully compacting the ENTIRE Bible into just 6 weeks of study.  Seriously, I’ve done numerous Bible studies over the years, and this is still my all-time fave.  I learned more doing this study than I did reading entire Bible several times.  She has such a gift for “dumbing it down and pulling it all together”.

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Redeeming Love – because I’m a hopeless romantic.  Period.  In love with Jesus, above all else, but this book always restores my hope in earthly love, grace, redemption, and acceptance, too.  I’m an avid, snobby reader, and this is the only book I’ve read over and over and over again.  And I’m not done yet.  But if you’re not a reader, the movie just came out.  Do yourself a favor and see it!

Rodan & Fields Dark Spot Corrector

R&F dark spot corrector.  Because when the whole world told me to wear sunscreen in my 20s, I didn’t listen.  Now, I’m playing catch up.  And it’s working.  So glad I didn’t even bother all those year ago.  I like to work smarter, not harder. 🙂

Soft Plush Micro Fleece Bed Sheet Set

Micro fleece sheets because I AM ALWAYS COLD.  ALWAYS. Even in July.  They just make me feel like a swaddled newborn, even at 42.

Heirloom Traditions Furniture Paint

Heirloom Chalk Paint because painting ANYTHING gives it a whole new life, and we all deserve second chances.  Sometimes third or even fourth. With this paint, you don’t even have to prime. Just degloss (they sell that, too), and you’re good to go.  After 30 days of curing, it won’t chip or flake, and it’s so thick and easy to use that it forgives a multitude of sins.

Desert Bronze Self Tanner

Desert Bronze….because it’ll be way too expensive to use R&F dark spot corrector all over my entire body.  Seriously, my fave self-tanner…no one wants to be ORANGE.  It’s the most lovely golden bronze shade I’ve seen, short of hours in the sun.  It’s a foam, so it goes on smoothly to prevent “streaking.”

Quay Sunglasses

Quay sunglasses. They have a million options. They often run sales, and they’re so stylish, but all at a very affordable price.  And let’s face it: I’m a tightwad…unless it’s paint.  I’d rather have 10 pair I love than one pair of “name brand.”

Rodan & Fields Lash Boost

R&F Lash Boost….because eyelash extensions destroyed my natural lashes.  I wanted them longer, but again, I’m a tight-wad. When I use this faithfully, I literally have to trim my lashes to keep them from rubbing my eyebrows.  Real world probs, I know.

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara. I just bought more today. It’s the ONLY make-up I just won’t compromise.  With a big, thick brush, and a tube that seems to last forever, it’s much cheaper, and less maintenance than extensions.   It doesn’t flake off or smudge.  Yet, it comes off easily with make-up remover. 

Raspberry Acai Wine

Raspberry Acai Wine….I’m a lightweight.  This tastes more juice for mamas.  Probably way more sugar than alcohol, so if you’re the real deal, maybe skip this one.  If you just wanna look cute, bottoms up!

Tyler Candle Co Detergent in Icon

Tyler Candle Co Detergent – a little goes a long way and lasts forever.  Super concentrated and it SMELLS SOOOOO GOOD!  There are several amazing scents, but I chose Icon over and over again.  I wash my sheets, blankets, and towels in this religiously. I’d wash my clothes in too, but I’d catch too much attention.  Or maybe that’s what I’m doing all wrong. 

February 24, 2022 by
Books, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts, Makeup

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – January Edition

Bringing you a few favorite things on this glorious Thursday….

Why Thursday?  Because it is my favorite day of the week!  It’s the eve of the weekend, full of hope.  Although, if you are a parent, weekends basically mean nothing – you’re still on duty. Friday Eve Favorites will come monthly, or more. Stay tuned for some fun surprises coming up this year!

Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops

These little drops are added to your facial moisturizer. I add 2 drops to my morning (or evening..just not both, or you’ll be super dark.) moisturizer, combine the two products in my palm, rub on my face, and let the glow build. My skin is sensitive, so I was a tad nervous to try these – but haven’t had one issue with breakouts! These drops come in light, medium, and dark. Just pick your tan and enjoy!

Start Today Journal by Rachel Hollis

“A goal is a dream with a sports bra on.”

Who isn’t a Rachel Hollis fan? She has an amazing attitude and spirit….limitless energy. This journal, the Start Today Journal is super intentional and I am LOVING IT! It’s all in one place – daily gratitude, dreaming, and goal setting. You can find yours at Target stores now!

Rapid Egg Cooker

My family eats boiled eggs like they are candy. It’s a tad disturbing. I make them by the dozens to keep in the fridge. I’m going to admit something really lazy…I hate boiling eggs and peeling them. This little rapid egg cooker is so fun – not only does it make perfect boiled eggs (and other variations of styles), but they are super easy to peel! Praise be to the chickens.

Betabrand Dress Yoga Pants

A few months ago I was trying to find some regular dress pants. Not skinny, not cropped, just REGULAR pants for NORMAL women. I ran into my friend, Alicia, awkwardly grabbed her hips and said, “Where did you get these?” Betabrand are the most comfortable pants you’ll ever wear to work. Your bottom half isn’t going to know what to do with all that moveable, breathing room. Expect a thank you card. Betabrand has several makes and models, but my favorite are the classic boot cut. For us normal gals.

LV Dupe Insulated Cooler

This has been such a fun little cooler. It’s obviously a LV dupe, and I’m 100% okay with having a knockoff cooler to put ice in. During football season I needed a cooler to bring into games – not to cheat the system (trust me, we purchase plenty from the concession stands), but to bring water and cooling cloths. We arrive at away games 2 hours early to set up the run through tunnel for the players. (And by we set up, I mean Chad.) The concession stand isn’t normally open that early, so I hunted down a cooler that looked like a purse. It comes in a black version as well and makes for awesome girlfriend gifts filled with their favorite drink! (It comes with an odd red tag on the front that I cut off with a razor….)

One Word Book

This isn’t a new book. It’s just a really good one. I first read it years ago, but picked it up again this month while I was figuring out my word for 2020. One Word breaks down how to choose your own word for the year. It’s a quick read, takes 45 minutes, 44 if you listen to the audio version. Definitely worth it.

Classic Button Down Shirt

I love a classic button down blouse that holds shape. This one is around $22 and comes in almost every color! I wash mine, hang it out, and find that it barely needs to be steamed before wearing! I haven’t ironed one yet. I normally am a small/medium in tops however, in this one I wear a large so the buttons don’t pull.

Fillable Brass Scent Lamp with USB port.

I bought this lamp for a friend. We were decorating her desk and then discovered it has a USB port! Stop it. Her desk is basically like a hotel with a charging lamp! I quickly had to go back and get 2 more, because I love any hidden place to charge my phone. You can fill this lamp with seasonal decor to spruce up any area, but I love it simple.

Leopard Adidas Sneakers

I would marry these if I could. They are super comfy and adorable. Dicks Sporting Goods currently has them in stock, however before they did, I found mine on Amazon here. I sized down a whole size, apparently Adidas sneakers run big. Also, my teens tell me I’m old for calling these sneakers. Whatever.

Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink

I don’t love usually lipstick. It doesn’t stay on and I’m too lazy to reapply all day, when I can swipe some gloss on without a mirror. This Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink in Loyalist is amazing. It stays on most of my day with a dab of gloss on top of it. There are lots of great shades, Loyalist and Dreamer are my favorite. But what do I know? I spent the majority of my teen years wearing Dr. Pepper flavored chapstick.

And lastly…a favorite meme of the month.

Replace the tarot cards with Angel cards, and there is a slight chance this might be the future for Grandma Brookie.

Love & Light to all,

Brooke

January 29, 2020 by